Carlo Ancelotti announced as new Brazil head coach
Carlo Ancelotti has officially been appointed as the new head coach of the Brazil national football team, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed on Monday.
According to Marca, the 24-year-old has grown increasingly unsettled after falling behind Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior in the attacking hierarchy.
The report states that Rodrygo "didn't want to play" in Madrid's recent 4–3 defeat to Barcelona, where he remained an unused substitute in a match that all but ended their La Liga title hopes.
Real Madrid are facing a trophyless season after crashing out of the Champions League against Arsenal and falling behind Barcelona in the title race. With Carlo Ancelotti set to leave and join Brazil, Xabi Alonso will take over at the Bernabéu this summer, a change that could reshape the team's forward line.
Rodrygo has made just 22 starts in La Liga this season, despite contributing 13 goals and 10 assists in all competitions. However, his diminished role since Mbappe's arrival has led to tension behind the scenes. Sources close to the club suggest his relationship with some teammates, particularly Vinicius, has broken down.
“He feels pushed aside,” one Madrid insider reportedly told Marca. “He expected to be a leader in this team, but the spotlight has moved to Bellingham and Mbappe.”
Premier League clubs are monitoring the situation closely. Manchester City have reportedly made a formal offer, while Liverpool are said to be “receptive” to the idea of signing the versatile attacker.
With Alonso expected to favour a front three of Bellingham, Mbappe and Vinicius, Madrid are not ruling out a summer sale. The club are understood to be increasingly frustrated with what they view as Rodrygo's poor attitude and growing detachment from the squad.
Neither Real Madrid nor Rodrygo have made any official comment on the situation via X or other channels as of now, but the saga is expected to develop quickly once Alonso officially steps in.
Rodrygo's contract runs until 2028, but his time in Madrid may be nearing its end.